Preparing for a Speech

Preparing for a speech is always an excellent idea, and the way people usually go aboutdoing so is by going over what they wrote and practicing aloud. However, there are a fewpoints one should always remember as he or she practices. The first is to rehearse enoughto be able to discuss the ideas and supporting material without leaving out major parts ofthe speech (Beebe & Beebe, 2012, p. 16). Sometimes over practicing leads tomemorization and that is not ideal, because speakers run the risk of forgetting some or allthe words. In addition, memorization makes speakers seem too rehearsed, which takesaway from audience connection. Therefore, one must avoid rehearsing a speech so manytimes that he or she uses the same words each time (Beebe & Beebe, 2012, p. 16).Another point to keep in mind is to “practice making eye contact with [an]… imaginaryaudience (Beebe & Beebe, 2012, p. 16). One should also “be aware of the volume [of hisor her voice]” (Beebe & Beebe, 2012, p. 16). Additionally, “[focus on the] message,rather than worrying about how to gesture” (Beebe & Beebe, 2012, p. 16). Keeping one’shands to his or her side will do just fine, if the speaker does not know what to do withthem (Beebe & Beebe, 2012, p. 16). In this way, the speaker will avoid unnatural gesturesas well as gestures that may distract the audience, like jingling change in a pocket (Beebe& Beebe, 2012, p. 16). If anything else, the most important tip to remember whilerehearsing is to practice the speech in a manner similar to how one would do so inactuality (Beebe & Beebe, 2012, p. 16).